In a significant development for Nigeria’s judiciary, President Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). The ceremony took place today at the Presidential Villa, with Justice Kekere-Ekun taking her oath of office at approximately 11:38 am. She was promptly seated in the Council Chambers at 11:45 am, marking the beginning of her tenure in this pivotal role.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment comes in the wake of her predecessor, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola’s retirement. Her nomination, put forward by the National Judicial Council (NJC) on August 15, was endorsed by President Tinubu. As the 23rd individual to assume the position of CJN, Justice Kekere-Ekun has achieved a notable milestone as the second female to hold this prestigious office, following Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, who served from July 2012 to November 2014.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by a host of distinguished figures, including fellow Supreme Court Justices, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives leadership represented by Prof. Julius Ihonbvere, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the outgoing CJN, Justice Ariwoola, among others.
Justice Kekere-Ekun will serve in an acting capacity until her appointment is formally confirmed by the Senate. Her appointment marks a historic moment for the Nigerian judiciary, as she steps into a role of profound significance in shaping the future of the country’s legal system.
